Published 2:49 pm, Monday, March 13, 2017

HARTFORD >> A progressive advocacy group is recommending the Connecticut General Assembly consider a tax on sugary beverages in order to fund a welfare-to-work program that subsidizes child care for low-income families.

The Finance, Revenue and Bonding Committee agreed to raise the concept of a sugary beverage tax, but has yet to schedule a public hearing.

Connecticut Voices for Children estimates a tax on sugary beverages would bring in about $85 million a year. The estimate is based on 2015 legislation that called for a tax of one cent on each fluid ounce of soda sold.

The $85 million in revenue, is far more than the $33 million Connecticut needed to fully fund the program this year.